Lebanese Hawawshi – A Middle Eastern Stuffed Bread Favorite

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Lebanese Hawawshi – A Middle Eastern Stuffed Bread Favorite

Lebanese Hawawshi is a beloved street food across Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Palestine, loved for its deliciously seasoned meat filling tucked inside crispy flatbread. It's incredibly popular among both kids and adults, and ideal for family gatherings or festive occasions.

Not only is it flavorful and easy to prepare, but it’s also a healthy meal option—rich in protein and relatively low in fat.

This recipe serves 6 to 8 people.

Ingredients

Lebanese Hawawshi

 

  • 6 to 8 Lebanese flatbreads (thin pita rounds)

  • 500g ground beef or lamb (finely minced)

  • 1 small onion, finely diced

  • 1 large tomato, finely chopped

  • 2 large garlic cloves, minced

  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

  • 2 tbsp pomegranate molasses

  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

  • ¼ cup green bell pepper, sliced thin

  • ½ tsp chili flakes or hot pepper (optional, to taste)

  • 1½ tsp Lebanese 7-spice mix

  • 1½ tsp salt

  • ¼ cup melted butter or vegetable ghee (for brushing)

How to Prepare Lebanese Hawawshi

Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, onion, garlic, tomato, green pepper, pomegranate molasses, parsley, cilantro, spices, and salt. Mix everything well until fully combined and evenly seasoned.

Step 2: Fill the Bread
Carefully open each Lebanese pita to form a pocket, making sure not to tear it.

Spoon a generous layer of the meat mixture inside each pita and spread it evenly from edge to edge.

Repeat this process with all the remaining bread and filling.

Step 3: Bake the Hawawshi
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Place the filled pitas on a large baking tray lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.

Brush the outsides of each hawawshi with melted butter or ghee for a golden, crispy finish.

Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the meat inside is fully cooked.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then slice and serve hot—ideally with a side of pickles, yogurt, or fresh salad.

Grilling Option (Optional):
For an extra smoky flavor, you can grill the hawawshi over charcoal by placing it on a wire rack and turning every 2 minutes until cooked through and nicely charred.

Enjoy your homemade Lebanese Hawawshi—crispy on the outside, juicy and flavorful on the inside. A true Middle Eastern favorite!
Bon appétit!

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